Motivation and Economic Behavior Behind the Success of Trader Widows in Indonesia

Abstract

Purpose: This article analyzes work motivation, forms of economic behavior, and success stories of widowed traders in Indonesia, especially in Sidrap, South Sulawesi.   Methods: The research was conducted with a qualitative approach using naturalistic inquiry methods. The data used consists of primary and secondary data, which were collected through observation, interviews and document study.   Results and Conclusion: The results of the study show that the motivation for widows in South Sulawesi to choose trading as their profession is the influence of the environment, where the majority of the population are traders, and the fast circulation of money. The economic behavior of trader widows includes distributing goods and utilizing profits for daily consumption needs, non-consumption needs, and saving for future needs, as well as for social activities and increasing capital.   Research implications: The results of this research provide an overview of widows who have long been considered weak women and are often underestimated, who actually have high work motivation and have proven to be successful in trading.   Originality/value: Widows should not be labeled as women who are weak and need mercy, but many of them are successful in developing businesses, including in the field of trade.